This book examines legal issues that affect Catholic high schools. Chapter 1 discusses sources of the law and how fairness and due process, federal and state statutes, and various guidelines shape the law. Tort law, corporal punishment, search and seizure, defamation of character, and negligence are covered in chapter 2. Chapter 3 details issues surrounding student privacy and such issues as confidentiality of records, whereas chapter 4 describes the staff-student relationship and how the law governs confidentiality, sexual misconduct, physical contact, and other behaviors. Since student confessions can be an important part of the teacher-student relationship, legal aspects of confidentiality, legal immunity, case law, the student journal, and school retreats are discussed. Chapter 6 looks at child abuse and neglect and considers statutory guidelines, inservice education, who should file a child-abuse report, and teachers and abuse. Sexual harassment is treated in the next chapter, which includes an overview of actions that constitute harassment and suggested policies for addressing reports of harassment. Other topics receiving treatment include accommodating students with special needs, extracurricular and cocurricular activities, personal conduct of professional staff, gangs, copyright law, school handbooks, and Catholic-school finances. Each chapter includes a section for reflection and discussion. (RJM)

A practical guide to helping today's Catholic school teachers deal with the legal issues facing them.

This reference guide examines special education, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and their implications for educators in Catholic schools. Chapters 1 through 4 look at special education, Section 504, and IDEA from a legal perspective. A brief history of special education is provided and several key court cases are discussed. The guide examines what Section 504 addresses and what must be done in compliance with it, including admissions examinations and standards as well as service plans. Ten key issues under IDEA are then addressed, including private and residential school placement, extended school year programs, related services, assistive technology, and discipline. Chapters 5 through 8 examine special education as it affects religiously affiliated non-public schools. In light of the 1997 IDEA amendments and the 1999 regulations, the guide addresses how these institutions fit within the laws requirements. Several key issues specifically facing Catholic school administrators are addressed, including working with parents and public school officials, providing staff development, and assessing the classroom setting. Appendices contain the United States Bishops statement on individuals with disabilities, selected relevant federal regulations, and a list of useful special education Web sites. (Contains 312 references.) (CR).

Proceedings of the 17th annual NOLPE meeting held in Las Vegas, Nevada, November 10-12, 1971.